Frequently Asked Questions

• What's the difference between an MSF and the MBA?

  As a discipline-focused degree, the MS in Finance offers greater breadth and depth in finance—with an emphasis on mastery of the quantitative skills you need in finance roles—than in an MBA. The general management emphasis of the MBA involves more coursework in more disciplines (marketing, supply chain management, organizational behavior, and so on), requiring a lengthier program, and generally, more business experience going into the degree.
  

• What can I do with an MS in Finance?

  Graduate of MS in Finance programs seek roles in banking, consulting firms, corporate finance (including treasury operations), government (local, state, and federal levels), and investments (such as venture capital firms, brokerages, insurance companies). See our Alumni page for examples of Santa Clara graduate pursuing finance careers »
  

• What are the admissions requirements?

  The admissions requirements are similar to other graduate business degree programs at Santa Clara: an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university, college calculus, optional GRE or GMAT scores and an appropriate GPA indicating ability to handle graduate-level coursework, application essays, and professional recommendations. There is no professional work experience required, so new college graduates are welcome to apply. Please see our Requirements page for more detail »
  

• What is the cost?

  Units in the MSF program in 2013-14 are $1,015 per unit ($49,735 for 49 units), and financial aid is available.
  

• When does the program start and finish?

  Your program begins in mid-summer with a finance 'bootcamp,' providing you with foundational business courses. Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters you will complete required classes and finance and unrestricted electives, allowing you to focus your study in corporate finance, investment management, or capital markets. You will receive your degree in June.